'Slaughtered Souls' Rewarded - A White Robe

A White Robe

After documenting the faith of integrity keepers of ancient times, the apostle Paul said:  "And yet, all these, although  they had witness borne to them through their faith, did not get the fulfillment of the promise, as God foresaw something better for us, in order that they might not be made perfect apart from us."  (Hebrews 11:39, 40) What is that "something better" that Paul and other anointed Christians anticipate?  John sees it here in vision: "And a white robe was given to each of them; and they were told to rest a little while longer, until the number was filled also of their fellow slaves and their brothers who were about to be killed as they also had been."  (Revelation 6:11) Their receiving "a white robe" has to do with their resurrection to be immortal spirit creatures.  No longer do they lie as slaughtered souls underneath the altar, but they are raised to be part of the group of 24 elders that worship before  the heavenly throne of God.  There, they themselves have been given thrones, showing that they are "dressed in white outer garments,"  signifying that have been adjudged  righteous, worthy of an honored place before Jehovah in that heavenly court.  This is also in fulfillment of Jesus' promise to faithful anointed Christians in the congregation in Sardis: "He  that conquers will thus be arrayed in white outer garments. -Revelation 3:5; 4:4; 1 Peter 1:4.

All The evidence indicates that this heavenly resurrection being in 1918, after Jesus' enthronement in 1914 and his riding forth to start his kingly conquest by cleansing the heavens of Satan and his demons.  Yet, those resurrected anointed  ones are told that they must  "rest a little while longer, until the number . . .also of their fellow slaves" is filled.  Those of the John class still on earth must prove their integrity under trial and persecution, and some of these may yet be killed.  Finally, though all the righteous blood shed by  Babylon the Great and her political paramours will be avenged.  In the meantime, resurrected ones are doubtless busy with heavenly duties.  They rest, not by relaxing in blissful inactivity, but in that they patiently await the day of Jehovah's vengeance.  (Isaiah 34:8; Romans 12:19) Their rest will end when they witness the destruction of  false religion and, as "called and chosen and faithful" ones, they accompany the Lord Jesus Christ in executing judgment on all other parts of Satan's wicked seed here on earth. -Revelation 2:26, 27; 17:14; Romans 16:20.

Next time: 'Slaughtered Souls' Rewarded - "Those Who Are Dead Rise First"

From the Book of Revelation

'Slaughtered Souls' Rewarded

Conclusion of 'Slaughtered Souls' Rewarded

The situation may also be likened to that in apostate Judah when King Manasseh came to the throne in 716 B.C.E.  He shed much innocent blood, probably 'sawing asunder' the prophet Isaiah.  (Hebrews 11:37; 2 Kings 21:16)  Although Manasseh later repented and reformed, that bloodguilt remained.  In 607 B.C.E., when the Babylonians desolated the kingdom of Judah, "it was only by the order of Jehovah that it took place against Judah, to remove it from his sight for the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he had done; and also for  the innocent blood that he had shed, so that he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood, and Jehovah did not consent to grant forgiveness." - 2 Kings 24:3, 4.

As in Bible times, so today many of the individuals who killed God's witnesses may be long dead.  But the organization that caused their martyrdom is still very much alive and bloodguilty.  It is Satan's earthly organization, his earthly seed.  Prominent therein is Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion.  She is described as being  "drunk with the blood of the holy ones and with the blood of the witnesses of Jesus.  Yes, "in her was found the blood of prophets and of holy ones and of all those who have been slaughtered on the earth."  (Revelation 17:5, 6;18:24; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 12:28) What a load of bloodguiltiness!  As long as Babylon the Great exists, the blood of her victims will cry out for justice. -Revelation 19:1, 2.

John himself witnessed martyrdom in the first century as the cruel Serpent and his earthly seed waged war on the growing congregation of anointed Christians.  John had seen our Lord impaled and had survived  through the slayings of Stephen, of his own brother James, and of Peter, Paul, and other close associates.  (John 19:26, 27; 21:15, 18, 19; Acts7:59, 60; 8:2; 12:2; 2 Timothy 1:1; 4:6, 7)  In 64 C.E., Roman Emperor Nero had made a scapegoat of the Christians accusing them of burning the city, to counteract a rumor that he was the guilty one.  The historian Tacitus reports: "They [Christians] died by methods of mockery; some were covered with the skins of wild beasts and then torn by doges, some were [impaled], some were burned as torches to light at night." A further wave of persecution under Emperor Domitian (81-96) had resulted in John's being exiled to the island of Patmos. As Jesus said: "If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you also." -John 15:20; Matthew 10:22.

By the fourth century C.E., that old Serpent, Satan the Devil, had brought forth his masterpiece of deception, the apostate religion of Christendom-A Babylonish system hidden under a "Christian" veneer.  It is the principal part of the seed of the Serpent and has developed into a multitude of conflicting sects.  Like unfaithful Judah of old, Christendom carries a heavy bloodguilt, having been deeply involved on both sides in World Wars I and II.  Some political rulers in Christendom even used these wars as a  pretext for slaughtering anointed servants  of God.  Reporting on Hitler's  persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses, a review of Friedrich Zipfel's book Kirchenkampf in Deutschland (Fight of the Churches on Germany ) stated: "One third of them [the Witnesses] were killed, either by execution, other violent acts, hunger, sickness or slave labor.  The severity of this subjection was without precedent  and was the result of uncompromising faith that could not be harmonized with National Socialistic ideology." Truly, it can be said of Christendom, including  its priesthood:  "In your skirts there have been found blood marks of the souls of the innocent poor ones." -Jeremiah 2:34.

Since 1935 faithful young men of the great crowd have borne the brunt of persecution in many lands.  (Revelation 7:9) Even as World War II ended in Europe, in just one town 14 young witnesses of Jehovah were executed by hanging.   Their crime? Refusal to "learn war anymore."  (Isaiah 2:4) More recently, young men in the Orient and in Africa have been beaten to death, or executed by firing squad over the same issue.  These youthful martyrs, worthy supporters of Jesus' anointed  brothers , will surely have a resurrection into the promised new earth. -2 Peter 3:13; compare Psalm 110:3; Matthew 25:34-40; Luke 20:37, 38.

Next time: 'Slaughtered Souls' Rewarded - A White Robe

From the Book of Revelation

'Slaughtered Souls' Rewarded

GOD"S Kingdom rules!  The Rider of the white horse is about to complete his conquest!  The red horse, the black horse, and the pale horse are galloping through the earth!  Indisputably, Jesus' own prophecies concerning his royal presence are being fulfilled.  (Matthew, chapters 24, 25; Mark, chapter 13; Luke chapter 21)  Yes, we are living in the last days of this system of things.  (2 Timothy 3:1-5) That being so, let us pay close attention as the Lamb, Jesus Christ, breaks open the fifth seal of that scroll. In what further revelation are we now to share?

John describes a moving scene: "And when he opened the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those slaughtered because of the word of God and because of the witness work that they use to have."  (Revelation 6:9) What is that? A sacrificial altar up in heaven?  Yes!  It is the first time that John mentions an altar.   Already, though,  he has described Jehovah in his throne, the surrounding cherubs the glassy sea, the lamps, and the 24 elders carrying incense-all of these resembling features of the earthly tabernacle, Jehovah's sanctuary in Israel.  (Exodus 25:17, 18; 40:24-27, 30-32; 1 Chronicles 23:4) Should it, then, surprise us to find a symbolic altar of sacrifice also in the heaven? Exodus 40:29.

Underneath, this altar are "the souls of those slaughtered because of the word of God and because of the witness work that they used to have."  What does this mean?  These could not be disembodied souls-like those believe in  by the pagan Greeks ( Genesis 2:7; Ezekiel 18:4) Rather, John knows that the soul, or life is symbolized by the blood, and when the priests at the ancient Jewish tabernacle slaughtered a sacrificial animal, the sprinkled the blood "round about upon the altar' or  poured it "at the base of the altar of burnt offering."  (Leviticus 3:2, 8, 13; 4:7; 17:6, 11, 12)  Hence, the animal's soul was closely identified with the altar of sacrifice.  But why would the souls, or blood, of these particular servants of God be seen underneath a symbolic altar in heaven"  Because their deaths are viewed as sacrificial.

Indeed, all those who are begotten as spirit sons of God die a sacrificial death.  Because of the role they are to play in Jehovah's heavenly Kingdom, it is God's will that they renounce and sacrifice any hope of life everlasting on earth.  In this respect,   they submit to a sacrificial death in behalf of Jehovah's sovereignty.  (Philippians 3:8-11; compare 2:17)  This is true in a very real sense of those whom John saw under the altar.  They are anointed ones who in their day were martyred for their zealous ministry in upholding Jehovah's Word and sovereignty.  Their "souls [were]  slaughtered because of the word of God and because of the witness work [mar-ty-ri'an] that they used to have.

The scenario continues to unfold:  "And they cried with a loud voice, saying:'  Until when, Sovereign Lord Holy and true, are your refraining from judging  avenging our blood upon those who dwell on the earth?' " (Revelation 6:10) How can their souls, or blood, cry out for vengeance, since the Bible shows tat the dead are unconscious? (Ecclesiastes 9:5) Well, did not righteous Abel's blood cry out after Cain murdered him?  Jehovah then said to Cain:  "What have you dine? Listen!  Your brother's blood is crying out to me from the ground."  (Genesis 4:10, 11; Hebrews  12:24)   It was not that Abel's blood was crying out literally  uttering words.  Rather, Abel had dies as an innocent victim, and justice called out for his murderer to be punished.  Similarly, those Christian martyrs are innocent, and in justice they must be avenged.  (Luke 18:7, 8)  The cry for vengeance is loud because many thousands have thus died. -Compare Jeremiah 15:15, 16.

Next time: Conclusion of  'Slaughtered  Souls' Rewarded

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of The Framework of the Book of Revelation

Conclusion of The Framework of the Book of Revelation

9TH Vision 14:1-20): A splendid foreview of the 144,000 on Mount Zion, Angelic messages  are heard around the earth, the vine of the earth is reaped, and the winepress of God's anger is trodden.

10TH Vision ( 15:1-16:21): Another glimpse of the heavenly court, followed by the pouring out of the seven bowls of Jehovah's anger into the earth.  This section, too, ends with a prophetic description of the end of Satan's system. 

11TH Vision ( 17:1-18): The great harlot, Babylon the Great, rides a scarlet-colored wild beast, which goes briefly into the abyss but comes forth again and devastates her.

12TH Vision (18:1-19:10): The fall and final destruction of Babylon the Great are announced.  After her execution, some mourn, other praise Jehovah, the marriage of the Lamb is announced. 

13TH Vision ( 19:11-21): Jesus leads the armies of heaven to execute God's wrathful judgment on Satan's  system, its armies, and its  supporters; carrion birds feast on their corpses.

14TH Vision (20:1-10): The abyssing of Satan the Devil, the Thousand Year Reign of Christ and his fellow kings, mankind's final test, and the destruction of Satan and his demons.

15TH Vision (20:11-21:8): The general resurrection and the great Judgment Day; a new heaven and a new earth appear, with eternal blessings for righteous mankind. 

16TH Vision (21:9-22:5): Revelation is climaxed with a glorious vision of New Jerusalem, the Lamb's wife. God's provision of healing and life for mankind flows  from that city.

Revelation concludes with warm words of greeting and counsel from Jehovah, Jesus, the angel, and John himself.  The invitation to everyone is "Come!" -Revelation 22:6-21

Next time: 'Slaughtered Souls" Rewarded

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - The Framework of the Book of Revelation

The Framework of the Book of Revelation

  Having progressed thus far in our discussion of the book of Revelation, we being to see more clearly the book's framework.  After its rousing introduction (Revelation 1:1-9) Revelation can be viewed as divided  into 16 versions as follows:

1ST Version (1:10-3:22): John sees by inspiration the glorified Jesus, who sends warm messages of counsel to the seven congregations.

2ND Vision (4:1-5:14): A magnificent view of the heavenly throne of Jehovah God.  This One hands a scroll to the Lamb.

3RD Vision  ( 6:1-17): Breaking open the first six seals of the scroll, the Lamb progressively reveals a composite vision of events due to happen in the Lord's day.  The four horsemen of Apocalypse ride forth, God's  martyred slaves receive white robes, and the great day of wrath is described.

4TH (7:1-17): Angels hold back the winds of destruction until the 144,000 of spiritual Israel are sealed. A  great crowd out of all nations attribute salvation to God and Christ and are gathered for survival through the great tribulation. 

5TH Vision ( 8:1-9:21): At the opening of the seventh seal, there are seven trumpet blasts, the first six of which comprise the fifth vision.  These six trumpet blasts herald expression of Jehovah's judgment on mankind.  The fifth  and sixth trumpets also introduce the first and second woes.

6TH Vision ( 10:1-11:19): A strong angel gives John a little scroll, the temple is measured, and we learn the experiences  of  two witnesses. It climaxes with the blowing of the seventh trumpet, which heralds the third woe for God's enemies-the incoming Kingdom of Jehovah and of his Christ. 

7TH Vision (12:1-17): This describes the birth of the Kingdom, resulting in Michael's hurling the serpent, Satan, down to the earth. 

8TH Vision ( 13:1-18): The powerful wild beast comes out of the sea, and the beast with two horns like a lamb urges mankind to worship it.

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of The Framework of the Book of Revelation

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of The Pale Horse and Its Rider

Conclusion of The Pale Horse and Its Rider

John's vision mentioned wild beasts as a fourth cause of untimely death.   Indeed, the four things featured by the opening of the fourth seal-warfare, famine, disease, and wild beasts-were in ancient times, viewed as  predominant causes of untimely death.  So they would foreshadow all causes of untimely death today. It is just as Jehovah warned Israel: So, too, it will be when there will be my four injurious acts of judgment-sword and famine and injurious wild beasts  and pestilence-that I shall actually send upon Jerusalem in order to cut off from it earthling man and domestic animal." -Ezekiel 14:21.

Death by wild beasts has seldom made headlines in modern times, though in tropical countries wild animals have steadily claimed victims throughout the 20th century.  In the future, they may claim even more if lands become desolated because of warfare or people become too emaciated by famine to fight off hungry animals.  Additionally, there are many humans today who, like unreasoning animals, display beastly dispositions quite contrary to those described at Isaiah 11:6-9.  These people are largely responsible for the global expansion of sex-related crimes, murder, terrorism, and bombings in the modern world.  (Compare Ezekiel 21:31; Romans 1:28-31; 2 Peter 2:12)  The fourth horseman reaps their victims too.   Indeed, the main  point of this prophetic scene appears to be that the rider of the pale horse harvests untimely death of mankind in many ways.

The information revealed by the opening of the four seals reassures us because it teaches us not to despair at the warfare, hunger, disease, and other causes of untimely death that ware so rampant today; neither should we lose hope because  human leaders  have failed (miserably) to solve current problems.  if world conditions make it evident that the raiders of the red, black, and pale horses are abroad, do not forget that the Rider of the white horse was first to begin his ride.  Jesus has become the King, and he has  already conquered to the extent of casting Satan out of the heavens.  His further conquests have included his gathering out the remaining ones of the sons of  spiritual Israel and the international great crowd, numbering into the millions for survival through the great tribulation.  (Revelation 7:4, 9, 14)  His ride must continue until he completes his conquest.

The opening of each of the four seals has been followed by the summons "Come!" Each time, a horse  and its rider came charging forth.  Starting with the  fifth seal, we no longer hear such a summons.  But those horsemen are still riding, and they will continue  at the gallop throughout the conclusion of the system of things.  (Compare Matthew 28:20) What other momentous events does Jesus reveal as he opens the remain three seals?  Some of the happenings are invisible to the human eyes.  Others though visible, are yet future.  Nevertheless, their fulfillment is certain. Let us see what they are.

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - The Framework of the Book of Revelation

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - The Pale Horse and Its Rider

The Pale Horse and Its Rider

The story is not yet completely told.  Jesus opens the fourth seal, and John tells us the result: "And when he opened the fourth seal,  I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say: 'Come!' "  (Revelation 6:7)  This is the voice of the cherub that resembles a flying eagle.  Farsighted wisdom is indicated, and truly John, the John class, and all other earthly servants of God have needed to observe and act with insight in view of what is here depicted.  So doing, we may find a measure of protection from the scourges that plague the worldly-wise of today's proud immoral generation. -1 Corinthians 1:20, 21.

What new horrors are unleashed, then, as the fourth horseman responds to the call?  John tells us:  "And I saw, and look!  a pale horse; and the one seated upon it had the name Death. And Hades was following him."  (Revelation 6:8b)  The rider of the last horse has a name: Death.  He is the only one of the four horsemen of Apocalypse to reveal  his identity  so directly.  Fittingly, death rides a horse that is pale, since the word pale (Greek, khlo-ros')  is used in Greek literature to describe faces that are blanched, as if by disease.  Also fittingly,  Death is closely followed in some unexplained manner by Hades (gravedom), since Hades receives to itself the greater number of those who fall victim to the ravages of the fourth horseman.  Happily, for these there will be a resurrection, when 'death and Hades give up those dead in them.'  (Revelation 20:13) But how does death claim those victims?

The vision enumerates some of the ways "And authority was given them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with a long sword and with food shortage and with deadly plague and by the wild beasts of the earth."  (Revelation 6:8b)  Not necessarily a literal fourth of earth's population but a large portion of the earth, whether densely or sparsely inhabited, would be affected by this ride.  This horseman reaps the victims of the big sword of the second horseman and the famines and food shortages of the third.  He reaps his own harvest, too, from deadly plague and also a harvest from earthquakes, as described at Luke 21:10, 11.

Of current importance here is "deadly plague."  Following in the wake of the ravages of World War I, the Spanish flu reaped over 20 million human lives in just a few months of  1918-1919.  The only territory on earth to escape this scourge was the small island of St Helena.  In places where the population was decimated, funeral pyres were lit to burn the piles of bodies.  And today there is the frightful  incidence of heart disease and cancer, much of which is caused by tobacco pollution.  In what has been described as "the ugly decade" of the 1980's, a way of life that is lawless by Bible standards has added the scourge of AIDS to the "deadly plague." At the time of this writing, all who contract this disease die, and it is estimated that in the United States alone 270,000 will be sick with AIDS by 1991;  millions appear to be doomed in African.  How thankful Jehovah's  people are that the wise counsel of his Word keeps them away from fornication and misuse of blood, through which so many diseases are transmitted today! -Acts 15:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of The Pale Horse and Its Rider

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - A Black Horse Plunges Forth

A Black Horse Plunges Forth

Jesus now opens the third seal!  John what do you observe? "And when he opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say: "Come!' " (Revelation 6:5a)  Happily, this third cherub "has a face like a man's," depicting the quality of love.  Principled love will abound in God's new world, even as that fine quality permeates all of Jehovah's organization today.  (Revelation 4:7; 1 John4:16) We can be sure that the Rider of the white horse, who "must rule as king until God has put all enemies under his feet," will lovingly remove the calamitous  situation that is next brought to John's scrutiny. -1 Corinthians  15:25.

What does John  see, then, as the third  summons to "Come!"  is answered?  "And I saw, and, look! a black horse; and the one seated upon it had a pair of scales in his hand." (Revelation 6:5b)  Stark famine!  That is the dire message of the prophetic scene.  It points forward to situations early in the Lord's day when food must be rationed out by scales.  Since 1914 famine has been a continuing worldwide problem. Modern warfare brings famine in its wake, for resources normally used in feeding the hungry are often diverted to supplying war weapons. Farm workers are conscripted, and battle-scarred fields and scorched-earth policies curtail food production.  How true this was during the first world war, when millions suffered from hunger and died!  Moreover, the rider of the black horse of hunger did not relent with the end of the war. During the 1930's , five million perished, in in just one famine in the Ukraine.  The second world war brought in its wake more food shortages and famines.  As the black horse continued to gallop, the World Food Council reported in mid -1987  that 512 million humans were starving and that 40,000 children die of hunger-related causes every day.

John has more to tell us: "And I heard a voice as if in the midst of the four living creatures say: "A quart of wheat for a denarius; and , and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the olive oil and the wine.' " (Revelation 6:6) All four cherubs are united in expressing a need to watch food supplies carefully-just as the people had to "eat bread by weight and in anxious care" prior to Jerusalem's destruction in 607 B.C.E. (Ezekiel 4:16)  In John's time, a quart of wheat was reckoned to be the daily ration for a soldier.  How much would such a ration cost?  One denarius-a whole day's wage!   (Matthew 20:2)  What if a man had a family?  Well, he could buy three quarts of unpolished barley instead.  Even that would feed only a small family.  And barley was not viewed as a quality food such as wheat.

What is implied by the statement,"Do not harm the olive oil and the wine"?  Some have viewed it as meaning that while many would be short of food and even starving, the luxuries of the rich would not be harmed.  But in the Middle East, oil and wine are not really luxuries.  In Bible times, bread, oil, and wine were viewed as staples.  (Compare Genesis 14:18; Psalm 104:14, 15) Water was not always good, so wine was widely used for drinking and sometimes for medicinal purposes.  (1 Timothy 5:23) With regard to oil, in Elijah's day the widow of Zarephath, poor as she was, still had some oil left with which to cook her remaining flour.  (1 Kings 17:12) Therefore, the command "do not harm the olive oil and the wine" appears to be advice not to use up these basic commodities too quickly but to be sparing in their use. Otherwise, they will be harmed,' that is, they will run out before the famine ends. 

How happy we can be that the Rider of the white horse will soon rein in that galloping black horse!  For it is written concerning His loving provision for the new world:  "In his days the righteous one will sprout, and the abundance of peace until the moon is no more. . . .There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow." -Psalm 72:7, 16; See also Isaiah 25:6-8.

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - The Pale Horse and Its Rider

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of Behold, the Fiery-Colored Horse!

Conclusion of  Behold, the Fiery-Colored Horse!

There had been many wars before 1914, the year when the Rider of the white horse received his crown.  But now the rider of the red horse is given "a great sword."  What does this imply? With the eruption of World War I, human warfare becomes more sanguinary, more destructive than ever before.  During the  1914-1918 blood bath, tanks poison gas, airplanes, submarines, huge cannons, and automatic weapons were used either for the first time or on an unprecedented scale.  In some 28 nations, whole populations, not just professional soldiers, were pressed into the war effort.  Casualties were horrendous.  More than nine million soldiers were slaughtered,, and civilian casualties were astronomical.   Even with the end of war, there was no return to real peace on earth.  More than 50 years after that war, German statesman Konrad Adenauer commented:  "Security and quiet have disappeared from the lives of men since 1914." It was indeed, granted  to the rider of the fiery-colored horse to take peach away from the earth!

Then, with his thirst for blood whetted, the rider of the red horse plunged into World War II.  Instruments of slaughter became even more fiendish, and casualties skyrocketed to four times those of World War I. In 1945 two atom bombs burst over Japan, each one annihilating-in a flash-tens of thousand of victims.  During the second world war, the rider of the red horse reaped a huge harvest of some 55 million lives, and even then he was not satisfied. It is reliably reported that at least 19 million souls have fallen under the "great sword" since World War II.

Could we call this a triumph for military technology? It is, rather, a testimony that the merciless red horse is at a gallop.  And where will that gallop end? some scientists forecast mathematically that an accidental nuclear war is virtually certain to take place within the next 25 years-let alone a planned nuclear conflagration!  But happily the conquering Rider of the white horse has other thoughts about this.

As long as society is based on nationalistic pride and hatred, mankind must continue to sit on a keg of nuclear peril.  Even if the nations, out of desperation, should scrap all nuclear firepower, they would retain the know-how. In short order, they could reproduce their murderous nuclear devices, hence, any war with conventional weapon could soon mushroom into a holocaust. The pride and hatred that envelop the nations today must lead to humanity's  suicide, unless -ah, yes, unless the Rider of the white horse should head off the mad gallop of the fiery-colored mount.  Let us be confident that Christ the King will ride, both to complete his  conquest over the world controlled by Satan and to establish a new earthly society based on love-love of God and neighbor-a force for peace far, far superior to the shaky nuclear deterrents of our maddened times.-Psalm  37:9-11; Mark 12:29-31; Revelation 21:1-5.

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - A Black Horse Plunges Forth

From the Book of Revelations

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Behold, the Fiery-Colored Horse!

Behold, the Fiery Colored Horse

Toward the end of Jesus' ministry on earth, his disciples asked him privately: "What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?"  In reply, he foretold calamities that would be "a beginning of pangs of distress."  Said Jesus: "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be great earthquakes, and in one place after another pestilences and food shortages, and there will be fearful sights and from heaven great signs."  (Matthew24:3, 7, 8; Luke 21:10, 11) The things John sees when the remaining seals of the scroll are opened provide a remarkable parallel to that prophecy.  Watch now as the glorified Jesus opens the second seal!

"And when he opened the second seal, I heard  the second living creature say: "Come!' "  (Revelation 6:3)  It is the second cherub, with the appearance of a bull, that issues the command.  Power is the quality here symbolized, but power used righteously.  In contrast though, John is now to see a hideous, death-dealing display of power.

How, then, is this second summons to "Come!" answered?  In this way:  "And another came forth, a fiery-colored horse; and to the one seated upon it there was granted to take peace away from the earth so that they should slaughter one another; and a great sword was given him."  (Revelation 6:4)  A grim vision indeed!  And there is no doubt as to what it pictures: war!  Not the righteous, victorious warfare of Jehovah's conquering King but cruel, man-made, international warfare with needless bloodshed and pain.  How appropriate that this rider is mounted on a fire-red horse! 

Certainly, John would want no part with this horseman and his headlong ride , for it had been prophesied concerning God's people:  "Neither will they learn war anymore."  (Isaiah 2:4) Though still "in the world," John and, by extension, the John class and the great crowd today are "no part" of this bloodstained system.  Our weapons are spiritual and  "powerful by God" for actively proclaiming the truth, apart from carnal warfare. - John 17:11, 14; 2 Corinthians  10:3, 4. (no part of this system or world means that the true Christians do not love the things, materially etc. of the world)

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of Behold, the Fiery -Colored Horse!

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Conclusion of Going Forth Conquering

Conclusion of Going Forth Conquering

Before and during World War II, the dictatorial Axis powers tried to wipe out Jehovah's Witnesses in many lands where religious leaders, particularly those of the Roman Catholic hierarchy, gave open or tacit support to oppressive dictators.  But the  71,000 Witnesses who were preaching when the war started in 1939 became 14,606 by its end in 1945, even though upwards of 10,000 had spent long years in prisons and concentration camps, and other thousands  had been killed.  The number of active Witnesses earth wide has expanded to well over three million today.  Growth had been outstanding in Catholic  lands and in countries where persecutions were most bitter-such as Germany, Italy,  and Japan, in each of which the Witnesses are now reporting well over 100,000 active field ministers. -Isaiah 54:17;  Jeremiah 1:17-19.

Our conquering King has also blessed his zealous people by leading them to many victories "in the defending and legally establishing of the good news" in courts of law and before rulers.  (Philippians 1:7; Matthew 10:18; 24:9)  This has been on an international scale-in Australia, Argentina, Canada, Greece, India, Swaziland, Switzerland, Turkey, and other lands. Among 23 legal victories gained by Jehovah's Witnesses in the United States Supreme Court have been those guaranteeing the right to declare the good news "publicly and from house to house" and to desist from idolatrous patriotic ceremonies.  (Acts 5:42; 20:20; 1 Corinthians 10:14) Thus, the way has been kept open for an expanding global witness.

How does Jesus "complete his conquest"?  This he does, as we shall see, by disposing of false religion and then hurling   every remaining segment of Satan's visible organization into a symbolic "fiery lake" of destruction, in vindication of Jehovah's sovereignty.  Confidently, we now look forward to that day at Armageddon when out "King of kings" will gain the final victory over Satan's oppressive  political organization! (Revelation 16:16; 17:14; 19:2, 14-21; Ezekiel  25:17) In the meantime, the invincible Conqueror on the white horse continues to ride forth as Jehovah keeps adding honest hearted ones to His righteous nation on earth.  (Isaiah 26:2; 60:22)  Are you sharing with the anointed John class in that joyful Kingdom expansion?  In that even, what the apostle John sees when the next three seals are opened will no doubt stir you to have an even greater share in Jehovah's work for this day. 

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Behold, the Fiery-Colored Horse!

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Going Forth Conquering

Going Forth Conquering

Why, though, must the newly crowned King ride forth to war?  It is because his kingship is established in the face of bitter opposition from Jehovah's chief adversary Satan the Devil, and those on earth who -knowingly or unknowingly - serve Satan's ends.  The birth of the Kingdom itself calls for a major war in heaven.  Fighting under  the name Michael (meaning "Who is Like God?")  Jesus  overcomes Satan and his demons and hurls them down to the earth.  (Revelation 12:7-12) Jesus' ride of conquest continues through the opening of the decades of the Lord's day while the nations and peoples of earth are being judged and sheep-like  humans are being gathered to the Kings' side for salvation. Though the whole world still lies "in the power of the wicked one," Jesus lovingly continues to shepherd his anointed brothers and their companions, helping each to achieve the conquest of faith. -1 John 5:19; Matthew 25:31-33.

What other conquests has Jesus made during the past 70-and-more years of the Lord's day? Around the globe, individually and as a congregation, Jehovah's people have experienced many hardships, pressures, and persecutions, similar to those described by the apostle Paul in giving proof of his ministry.  (2 Corinthians 11:23-28) Jehovah's Witnesses have needed "power beyond what is  normal," especially in theaters of war and violence, in order to endure.  (2 Corinthians  4:7) But even in the most trying situations, faithful Witnesses have been able to say as did Paul:  "The Lord stood near me and infused power into me, that through me the preaching  might be fully accomplished."  (2 Timothy 4:17) Yes, Jesus conquered  on their behalf. And he will continue to go forth conquering in our behalf, as long as we are resolved to complete our conquest of faith. -1 John 5:4.

The global congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses has shared in many conquests under the guidance of its conquering King.  Outstandingly, he protected these Bible Students from annihilation in 1918, when they themselves were 'conquered' temporarily by Satan's political organization.  In 1919, however, he broke prison bars to rescue them and then enlivened them to proclaim the good news "to the most distant part of the earth." -Revelation 13:7; Acts 1:8.

Next time: Conclusion of Going Forth Conquering

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - The White Horse and Its Illustrious Rider

The White Horse and Its Illustrious Rider

John, and with him the zealous John class and companions of today, is privileged to see a fast-moving drama!  John says:  "And I saw, and, look! a white horse and the one seated upon it had a bow; and a crown was given him, and he went forth conquering and to complete his conquest." (Revelation 6:2)  Yes, in answer to that thunderous "Come!" a white horse charges forth.  In the Bible, the horse often symbolizes warfare.  (Psalm 20:7; Proverbs 21:31; Isaiah 31:1)  This horse, likely a beautiful stallion, gleams with a whiteness that indicates unblemished holiness.  (Compare Revelation 1:14; 4:4; 7:9' 20:11)  How appropriate this is, for it portrays warfare that is clean and righteous in Jehovah's holy eyes! -See also Revelation 19:11, 14.

Who is the Rider of this horse?  He has a bow, an offensive weapon of war, but he is also given a crown.  The only righteous ones seen wearing crowns during the Lord's day are Jesus and the class represented by the 24 elders.  (Daniel 7:13, 14, 27; Luke 1:31-33; Revelation 4:4,10; 14:14) It is unlikely that a member of the group of 24 elders would be pictured as receiving a crown on his own merit.  Hence, this lone horseman must be Jesus Christ and not other.  John sees him in heaven at the historic moment in 1914 when Jehovah declares, "I, even I, have installed my king,"  and tells him that this is for the purpose "that I may give nations as  your inheritance."  (Psalm 2:6-8z0  Thus, in opening the first seal Jesus reveals how he himself, as the newly crowned King, sallies forth to war at God's appointed time>

This scene harmonizes beautifully with Psalm 45:4-7, addressed to the King enthroned by Jehovah: "And in your splendor go on to success; ride in the cause of truth and humility and righteousness, and your right hand will instruct you  in fear-inspiring things.  Your arrows are sharp-under you peoples keep falling-in the heart of the enemies of the king.  God is your throne to time indefinite, even forever, the scepter of your kingship is a scepter  of uprightness. You have loved righteousness and you hate wickedness.  That is why God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of exultation more than your partners."  Being familiar with that prophetic description, John would appreciate that it applies to Jesus' activity as King. -Compare Hebrews 1:1, 2, 8, 9.

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop! - Going Forth Conquering

From the Book of Revelation

Four Horsemen at the Gallop!

IN THIS day of crisis, are we not intensely interested in  "the things that must shortly take place"? Surely, we are, for we ourselves are involved!  So let us now accompany John as Jesus proceeds to open that intriguing scroll.  Remarkably, John does not have to read it.  Why not? Because its contents are conveyed to him "in signs"  by a series of dynamic, action-packed scenes. -Revelation 1:1, 10.

Listen to John as Jesus opens the first seal of the scroll:  "And I saw when he Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice as of thunder:  'Come!' " (Revelation 6:1) This is the voice of the first cherub.  Its lion like appearance would suggest to John that Jehovah's organization will act with courage in executing His righteous judgments.  And to whom is that command addressed?  It could not be to John, for John has already been invited to share in these prophetic scenes.  (Revelation 4:1) That "voice as of thunder" is calling forth other participants in the first  of a series of rousing episodes. 

Next time: Four Horsemen at a Gallop! - The White Horse and its Illustrious Rider

From the Book of Revelations

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A Swelling Anthem

A Swelling Anthem

In the scene described by John the hosts of heaven are rendering melodious acclaim to Jesus in acknowledgement of his faithfulness and his heavenly authority.  In this, they are joined by voices from the earthly realm as these too share  in praising both the Father and the Son.  Just as the achievements of a human son can bring great credit to parents so Jesus' loyal course redounds among all creation "to the glory of God the Father."  Thus, John goes on to report:  "And every creature that is in heaven and on earth and underneath the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying: "To the One sitting on the throne  and to the Lamb be the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever and ever.' " -Revelation 5:13.

When does this superb anthem sound forth?   It began early in the Lord's day.  After Satan and his demons were cast out of the heavens, "every creature that is in heaven" could unite in this song of praise.  And, as the record shows since 1919 a growing multitude on earth have united their voices in praising Jehovah, increasing from a few thousand to well over three million by the late 1980's.  After Satan's earthly system has been destroyed "every creature . . .on  earth" will be singing the praises of Jehovah's own due time, the resurrection of the countless millions of dead will begin, and then "every creature . . .underneath the earth" that is in the memory of God will have the opportunity to join in singing the anthem.   (not the anthem you are thinking of)

Already, "from the extremity of the earth  . . .the sea and . . . islands," millions of humans are singing a new song in association with Jehovah's global organization.  (Isaiah 42:10; Psalm 150:1-6)  This joyous praise will reach a crescendo at the end of the Millennium, when mankind has been raised to perfection.  That old Serpent, the arch-deceiver, Satan himself, will thereafter be destroyed in complete fulfillment of Genesis 3:15, and in a triumphant climax, all living creation, spirit and human, will sing in unison: "To the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb by the blessing and the honor and the glory and the might forever and ever."  there will be no dissenting voice in all the universe.

What a joyful time that will be!  Surely, what John describes here makes our hearts swell with happiness and stimulates us to join the heavenly hosts in singing heartfelt praises to Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Are we not more determined  than ever to endure in right works?  If we do so, we can expect that, with Jehovah's help, we will be there individually at the happy climax, adding our voices to that universal chorus of praise.  Certainly, the cherubic four living creatures and the resurrected anointed Christians are in full accord, for the vision ends with the words:  "And the four living creatures went saying: 'Amen!' and the elders fell down and worshiped." -Revelation 5:14.

May you, dear reader, exercise faith in the sacrifice of the Lamb-the 'worthy one'-and be blessed in your humble efforts to worship and serve Jehovah-"the One seated upon the throne."  Let the John class help you today as it provides the needed "measure of  [spiritual]  food supplies at the proper time."  (Luke 12:42) But look! The Lamb prepares to open the seven seals,.  What exciting disclosures are now in store for us?

Next time: Four Horsemen at the Gallop!

From the Book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A Heavenly Chorus

A Heavenly Chorus

How do others of the vast heavenly host of Jehovah's organization respond to this new song?  John thrills to behold their heartfelt accord: "And I saw, and I heard a voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders, and the number of them was myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice:  "The Lamb that was slaughtered is worthy to receive the power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.' " (Revelation 5:11, 12)   What an impressive song of praise! 

Does this mean that now Jesus has somehow replaced Jehovah God and all creation has turned to praising him rather than his Father?   Far from it!  Rather, this song of praise is in harmony with what the apostle Paul wrote:  "God exalted [Jesus] to a superior position and kindly gave him the name that is above every other name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend  of those in heaven and those on earth  and those under the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ  is Lord to the glory of God the Father."  (Philippians 2:9-11)  Jesus is here extolled because of his part in settling the primary issue before all creation-the vindication of Jehovah's rightful sovereignty.  What glory, indeed, this has brought to his Father!

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" -A Swelling Anthem

From the Book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A New Song

A New Song

A melodic song now rings forth.  It is sung to the Lamb by his priestly associates, the 24 elders:  "And they sing a new song, saying: 'You are worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, because you were slaughtered and with your blood you bought persons for God out of every tribe and tongue and nation.' " (Revelation 5:9) The expression "new song" occurs several times in the Bible and usually refers to praising Jehovah for some mighty act of deliverance.  (Psalm 96:1; 98:1; 144:9)  Thus, the song is new because the singer can now proclaim additional renewed appreciation for His glorious name.

Here, though, the 24 elders sing a new song before Jesus rather than before Jehovah.  but the principle is the same.  They praise Jesus for the new things that he, as God's Son, has done in their behalf.  By means of his blood, he mediated the new covenant and thus made possible the bringing forth of a new nation  as Jehovah's special possession.  (Romans 2:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Hebrews 7:18-25)  Members of this new spiritual nation came from many fleshly nations, but Jesus united them into one congregation as one nation. -Isaiah 26:2;  1 Peter 2:9, 10)

When Jehovah formed the Israelites into a nation back in the days of Moses, he made a covenant with them and promised that if they would remain faithful to that covenant, they would become a kingdom of priests before him.  (Exodus 19:5, 6) The Israelites were not faithful and never experienced the realization of that promise.  On the other hand, the new nation, formed by virtue of the new covenant mediated by Jesus has remained faithful.  Its members therefore get to rule over the earth as kings and also to serve as priests, helping right hearted ones among mankind to be reconciled to Jehovah  (Colossians 1:20)  It is just as the new song expresses it:   "And you made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are to rule as kings over the earth."  (Revelation 5:10)  What joy those 24 elders have in singing this new song of praise to the glorified Jesus!

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A Heavenly Chorus

From the Book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" -Songs of Praise

Songs of Praise

How do those others before Jehovah's throne react? "And when he took the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having each one a harp and golden bowls that were full of incense, and the incense means the prayers of the holy ones." (Revelation 5:8)  Like the four cherubic living creatures before God's throne, the 24 elders bow to Jesus in acknowledgement of his authority.  But these elders are alone in having harps and bowls of incense." And they alone now sing  a new song.  (Revelation 5:9)  Thus they resemble the 144,000 of the holy "Israel of God,"  who also carry harps and sing a new song.  (Galatians 6:16; Colossians 1:12; Revelation 7:3-8; 14:1-4)  Further, the 24 elders are shown to fulfill  a heavenly, priestly function, pictured by that of  the priests in ancient Israel who burned incense to Jehovah in the tabernacle-a function that ended on earth when God took the Mosaic Law out of the way, nailing it to Jesus' torture stake. (Colossians 2:14) What conclusion do we draw from all of this?  That here the anointed over comers are seen in their ultimate assignment as 'priests of God and of the Christ, ruling as kings with him for the thousand years.' -Revelation 20:6.

In ancient Israel, entry into the Most Holy before the symbolic presence of Jehovah, was limited to the high priest.  For him,  carrying incense was a life-or-death matter.  Jehovah's law said:  " [Aaron] must take the fire holder of the burning coals of fire from off the altar before Jehovah, and the hollows of  both his hands full of fine perfumed incense, and he must bring them inside the curtain.  He must also put the incense upon the fire before Jehovah, and the cloud of the incense must overspread the Ark cover, which is upon the Testimony, that he may not die."  (Leviticus 16:12, 13)  It was impossible for the high priest  to penetrate successfully into the Most Holy unless he burned incense. 

In the Christian system of things not only the anti typical High Priest, Jesus Christ, but also each of the 144,000 under priests eventually gets to  enter the anti typical Most Holy, the place of Jehovah's presence in heaven.  (Hebrews 10:19-23)  Entry into this Most Holy is impossible for these priests , as represented here by the 24 elders, unless they 'burn incense,' that is, constantly  offer up prayers and supplications to Jehovah. -Hebrews 5:7; Jude 20, 21; compare Psalm 141:2.

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - A New Song

From the book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - 'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered'

'The Lamb That Was Slaughtered'

John looks to see this "Lion that is of the tribe of Judah."   But how astounding!  A completely different symbolic figure appears:  "And  I saw standing in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures and in the midst of the elders a lamb as though it had been slaughtered, having seven horns and seven eyes, which eyes mean the seven spirits of God that have been sent forth into the whole earth." -Revelation 5:6.

Right in the center, beside the throne within the circles formed by the four living creatures and the 24 elders, there is  a lamb! Doubtless John quickly identifies this lam with "the lion that is of the tribe of Judah" and "the root of David."  He knows that, more than 60 years earlier, John the Baptizer introduced Jesus to onlooking Jews as  "the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29)  All during his life on earth, Jesus remained untainted by the world-just like an unblemished lamb-so that he could offer his blameless  life as a sacrifice for mankind. -1 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 7:26.

Is it somehow belittling or undignified to represent the glorified Jesus as "a lamb as though it had been slaughtered"? Not at all!   The fact that Jesus stayed faithful to the death was a major defeat for Satan and a great triumph for Jehovah God.  Representing Jesus in this way vividly portrays his conquest of Satan's world and is a reminder of the deep love that Jehovah and Jesus have for mankind.  (John 3:16; 15:13; compare Colossians 2:15)  Jesus is thus pointed to as the promised Seed, outstandingly qualified to open the scroll. -Genesis 3:15. 

What else adds to our appreciation of this "lamb"?  He has seven horns.  Horns in the Bible are often a symbol of power or authority, and seven would indicate  completeness. (Compare 1 Samuel 2:1, 10;Psalm 112:9; 148:14)  Hence, the Lamb's seven horns represents the fullness of power that Jehovah has entrusted to Jesus.  he is "far above every government and authority and power and lordship and every name named, not only in this system of things, but also in that to come."  (Ephesians 1:20-23;  1 Peter 3:22)  Jesus has particularly exercised    power, governmental power since 1914 when Jehovah enthroned him as heavenly King. -Psalm 2;6.

Moreover, Jesus is filled  to completeness with holy spirit, as pictured by the lamb's seven eyes, which "mean the seven spirits of God."  Jesus is a channel through whom the fullness of Jehovah's active force  flows to His earthly servants.  (Titus 3:6) Evidently, it is by this same spirit that he sees from heaven what is happening here on earth.  Like his Father, Jesus has perfect discernment.  Noting escapes his notice.  (Compare Psalm 11:4; Zechariah 4:10)  Clearly, this Son-the integrity keeper who conquered  the world, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, the one who offered his life for mankind; the one with complete authority, fullness of holy spirit, and perfect discernment from Jehovah God-yes, this one is outstandingly worthy to take  the scroll from Jehovah's hand.  Does he hesitate to accept this commission of service in Jehovah's' lofty organization?  No!  Rather,  "He went and at once took it [the scroll] out of the right hand of the One seated on the throne." (Revelation 5:7) What a fine example of willing compliance!

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - Songs of Praise

From the Book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" -Conclusion of The Worthy One

Conclusion of The Worthy One

Jesus preeminently is the one who, as a perfect human, served Jehovah in integrity and under excruciating trials. He supplied the complete answer to Satan's challenge.  (Proverbs 27:11) Thus, he could say as he did on the night before his sacrificial death,  "I have conquered the world."   (John 16:33)  For this reason, Jehovah entrusted the resurrected Jesus with "all authority . . .in heaven and on the earth."  He alone of all servants of God is qualified to receive the scroll, with a view to making known its momentous message.  -Matthew 28:18.

It is appropriate, indeed, that Jesus should open the scroll.  Since 1914 he has been enthroned as King of God's Messianic Kingdom, and that scroll reveals so much concerning the Kingdom and what it will accomplish.  Jesus faithfully bore witness to Kingdom truth while he was here on earth.  (John 18:36, 37)  He taught his followers to pray for the coming of the Kingdom.  (Matthew 6:9, 10)  He initiated the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom at the beginning of the  Christian era and prophesied the culmination of that preaching work during the time of the end.  (Matthew 4:23; Mark 13:10)  It is likewise  appropriate that one of the 24 elders should reveal to John that Jesus is the one to open the seals.. Why? Because these elders sit on thrones and wear crowns, being joint heirs with Christ in his Kingdom. -Romans 8L17; Revelation 4:4.

Next time: "Who Is Worth to Open the Scroll?" -The Lamb That Was Slaughtered

From the Book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?" - The Worthy One

The Worthy One

Yes, there is someone able to open scroll!  John relates:  "But one of the elders says to me:  'Stop weeping.  Look! The Lion that is of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has conquered so as to open the scroll and its seven seals.' "  (Revelation 5:5 )  So John, dry those tears!  The John class and their loyal companions today have also endured the decades of severed trials while waiting patiently for enlightenment.  What a comforting reward we now have in understanding  the  vision, and what a privilege to share in its fulfillment  by proclaiming its message to others! 

Ah, "the Lion that is of the tribe of Judah"! John is familiar with the prophecy that Jacob, ancestor of the Jewish race, pronounced concerning his fourth son, Judah: "A lion cub Judah is. From the prey, my son, you will certainly to up. He bowed down, he stretched himself out like a lion and, like a lion, who dares rouse him?  The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes, and to him the obedience of the peoples will belong."  (Genesis  49:9, 10)  The royal line of God's people stemmed from Judah.  Starting with David, all the kings who ruled in Jerusalem until the Babylonians destroyed that city were Judah's descendants.  But not one of them was the Shiloh prophesied by Jacob.  Shiloh means "He Whose [Right] It Is."  Prophetically, this name pointed to Jesus, the one to whom the Davidic Kingdom now permanently belongs. -Ezekiel 21:25-27; Luke 1:32, 33; Revelation 19:16.

John quickly recognizes the reference to "the root of David."  The promised Messiah is prophetically called both "a twig out of the stump of Jesse [father  of King David] . . .a sprout" and "the root of Jesse that will be standing up as a signal for the peoples."  (Isaiah 11:1, 10)  Jesus was a twig of Jesse, being born into the royal line of David, son of Jesse.  Further, as root of Jesse, he was the One that caused the Davidic dynasty to sprout again, giving it life and sustenance forever. -2 Samuel 7:16.

Next time: "Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll" - Conclusion of The Worthy One

From the Book of Revelation

"Who Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?"

SUBLIME AWE INSPIRING!  Such is the stirring vision of Jehovah's throne in its setting amid the lamps of  fire, the cherubs, the 24 elders, and the glassy sea.  But John, what do you see next?  John focuses on the very center of this heavenly  scene, telling us:  "And I saw in the right hand of the One seated upon the throne a scroll written within and on the reverse side, sealed tight with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice:  'Who is worthy to open the scroll and loose its seals?'  But neither in heaven not underneath the earth was there a single one able to open the scroll or to look into it.  And I gave way to a great deal of weeping because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it." -Revelation 5:1-4.


Jehovah himself, Sovereign Lord of all creation, is holding out that scroll.  It must be full of vital information, for it has  writing on the front and on the back.  Our curiosity is aroused.  What does the scroll contain?  We recall Jehovah's invitation to John:  "Come on up here, and I shall show you  the things that must take place."  (Revelation 4:1) With tingling expectation, we look forward to learning about those things.  But alas, the scroll is tightly closed, sealed shut with seven seals. 

Will the strong angel find someone worthy  to open the scroll? According to the Kingdom Interlinear, the scroll is located  "upon the right hand" of Jehovah.  This suggests that he holds it out on his open palm.  But it appears that no one in heaven or on earth, is worthy to accept and open that scroll.  Not even underneath  the earth, among faithful servants of God who have died, is anyone qualified for this high honor.  No wonder that John is visibly upset!  Perhaps he is not going to learn "the things that must take place" after all.   In our day, too, God's anointed people have anxiously waited for Jehovah to send forth his light and truth on Revelation.  This he would do progressively at the appointed time for the prophecy's fulfillment, in order to lead  his people in the way of a "grand salvation." -Psalm 43:3, 5.

Next time: "Who Is Worth to Open the Scroll?" -The Worthy One

From the Book of Revelation

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne -Jehovah's Praises Rings Out

Conclusion of  Jehovah's Praises Rings Out

The 24 elders have the same mental attitude that Jesus  displays, even casting their crowns down before Jehovah.  It is furthest  from their minds to exalt themselves in the presence of God.  They humbly recognize that the only purpose of their kingship is to bring honor and glory to him, just as Jesus always does.  (Philippians 2:5, 6, 9-11)  Submissively, they acknowledge their own inferiority and confess that their rulership is dependent on the sovereignty of Jehovah.  Thus, they are in heartfelt harmony with the cherubs and the rest of faithful creation in giving praise and glory to the God who created all things. -Psalm 150:1-6.

Who can remain unmoved at reading John's  account of this vision?  It is splendorous, grand!  But what must the reality be like?  Jehovah's very majesty must enliven anyone with an appreciative heart to join the four living creatures and the 24 elders in praising Him, both in prayer and by publicly  proclaiming His name.  This is the God for whom Christians are privileged to be witnesses today.  (Isaiah 43:10) Remember that John's vision applies to the Lord's day, where we now are.  "The seven spirits" are ever at hand to guide and strengthen us.  (Galatians 5:16-18) God's Word is available today to help us be holy in serving a holy God.  (1 Peter 1:14-16)  Certainly, we are happy to read aloud the words of this prophecy.  (Revelation 1:3)  what an inducement they provide to be faithful to Jehovah and not allow the world to distract us from actively singing his praises! -1 John 2:15-17.

So far, John has described what he sees when he is invited to approach through that opened door in heaven.  Most outstandingly he reports that Jehovah, in all the magnificence of His majesty and dignity, is seated on His celestial throne.  He is surrounded  by the mightiest of all organizations-radiant in its splendor and loyalty.  The divine Court is in session.  (Daniel 7:9, 10, 18)  The stage is set for something extraordinary to happen.  What is it, and how does it affect us today?  Let us watch as the scene unfolds!

Next time: "Who  Is Worthy to Open the Scroll?"

From the Book of Revelation

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Jehovah's Praises Ring Out

Jehovah's Praises Ring Out

John continues his description: "And as for the four living creatures, each one of them respectively has six wings; round about and underneath they are full of eyes.  And they have no rest day and night as they say:  'Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is coming.' " (Revelation 4:8)  This fullness of eyes suggests complete and farsighted vision. The four living creatures exercise this unceasingly, as they have no need of sleep.  They imitate the One of whom it is written: "As regards Jehovah, his eyes are moving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf   of those who heart is complete toward him."  (2 Chronicles 16:9)  Having so great a number of eyes the cherubs can see everywhere.  Nothing escapes their attention.  Thus they are well - equipped  to serve God in his work of judging.  Of him it is said:  "The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, keeping watch upon the bad ones and the good ones." (Proverbs 15:3) And with three pairs of wings - the number three being used in the Bible for emphasis-the cherubs can move with lightning swiftness to herald Jehovah's judgments and execute them. 

Listen! Melodious, soul stirring, is the song of praise that the cherubs render to Jehovah:  "Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who his coming."  Again, the threeness indicates intensity.  The cherubs strongly affirm the holiness of Jehovah God. He is the Source and the ultimate Standard of holiness.  He is also "the King of eternity," always "the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."  ( 1 Timothy 1:17; Revelation 22:13) The cherubs take no rest periods as they proclaim the matchless qualities of Jehovah before all creation.

The heaven of heavens   resounds with praises to Jehovah!  John's description continues: "And whenever the living creatures offer glory and  thanksgiving to the one seated upon the throne, the one that lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before the One seated upon the throne and worship the One that lives forever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne, saying: "You are worthy, Jehovah, even our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because of your will they existed and were created.' " (Revelation 4:9-11)  In all Scripture, this is one of the grandest declarations of homage to Jehovah, our God and Sovereign Lord!



Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Conclusion of Jehovah's Praises Ring Out

From the Book of Revelation

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Behold -"Four Living Creatures"!

Behold - "Four Living Creatures"!

John now observes another feature. He writes: "And in the midst of the throne and around the throne there are four living creatures that are full of eyes in front and behind." -Revelation 4:6b.

What do these creature picture? A vision reported  by another prophet, Ezekiel, helps us to find the answer.  Ezekiel saw Jehovah enthroned on a celestial chariot, which was accompanied by living creatures embodying characteristics similar to those described by John.  (Ezekiel 1:5-11,22-28) Later, Ezekiel again saw  that chariot throne accompanied by the living creatures.  This time, however, he referred to the living creatures as cherubs that John sees  must represent the many cherubs of God-creatures of high rank in His spirit  organization.  John would not think it unusual to see cherubs positioned so close to Jehovah's person, since in the ancient tabernacle arrangement, two cherubs of gold were displayed upon the lid of the ark of the covenant, which represented  Jehovah's throne.  From between these cherubs, Jehovah's voice issued commandments to the nation. -Exodus 25:22; Psalm 80:1.

These four living creatures are "in the midst of the throne and around the throne."  Exactly what does this mean?  It could signify that they are positioned  around the throne in such a way that one is standing in the middle of each side.  Thus, the translators of Today's English Version paraphrased the original Greek expression in this way "surrounding the throne on each of its sides."  Alternatively, the expression could mean that the four living creatures are in the central position in heaven where the throne is.  Likely, that is why The Jerusalem Bible renders the phrase "in the centre, grouped round the throne itself."  the important  thing is the closeness of the cherubs to Jehovah's throne, comparable to that of the cherubs that Ezekiel saw at each corner of Jehovah's organizational chariot.  (Ezekiel 1:15-22) All of this harmonizes with the words of Psalm 99:1: "Jehovah himself has become king. . . .He is sitting upon the cherubs."

John continues:  "And the first living creature is like a lion, and the second living creature is like a young bull, and the third living creature has a face like  a man's, and the fourth  living creature is like a flying eagle." (Revelation 4:7) Why do these four living creatures look so different, one from another?  These distinctive living creatures evidently highlight specific godly qualities.  First, there is the lion.  A lion is used in the Bible as a symbol of courage, especially in the pursuit of justice and righteousness.  ( 2 Samuel 17:10; Proverbs 28:1) Thus, the lion well represents the godly quality of courageous justice.  (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 89:14)  The second living creature resembles a young bull. What quality does a bull bring to your mind?  To the Israelites the bull was a valuable possession because of its power.  (Proverbs 14:4; see also Job 39:9-11)  the young bull, then, represents power, dynamic energy as supplied by Jehovah. -Psalm 62:11; Isaiah 40:26.

The third living creature has a face like a man's. This must represent godlike love, since on earth man alone was created in God's image, with the superlative quality of love.  (Genesis 1:26-28; Matthew 22:36-40; 1 John 4:8, 16) Undoubtedly, the cherubs display this quality as they serve around Jehovah's throne.  What now of the fourth living creature? this one is like a flying eagle in appearance.  Jehovah himself calls attention to the eagle's great vision:  "Far into the distance its eyes keep looking."  (Job 39:29) Hence, the eagle well symbolizes farsighted wisdom.  Jehovah is the Source of wisdom.  His cherubs exercise divine wisdom as they obey his commands. -Proverbs 2:6; James 3:17.

Next time: Jehovah's Praises Ring Out

From the Book of Revelation

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne- Lamps of Fire and a Glassy Sea

Lamps of Fire and a Glassy Sea

What does John further see?  This: "And there are seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, and these mean the seven spirits of God. And before the throne there is, as it were, a glassy sea like crystal." (Revelation 4:5, 6a)  John himself tells us the significance of the seven lamps: "These mean the seven spirits of God." The number seven symbolizes divine completeness; so the seven lamps must represent the fullness of the enlightening force of the holy spirit.  How grateful the John class today is that it has been entrusted with this enlightenment, together with the responsibility to pass it on to the spiritually hungry peoples of the earth!   How glad we are that each year over 200 million copies of the Watchtower magazine continue to beam forth this light in more than a hundred languages! -Psalm 43:3.

John sees also a "glassy sea like crystal."  What would this symbolize with regard to those invited into Jehovah's heavenly court?  Paul spoke of the way that Jesus sanctified the congregation, "cleansing  it with the bath of water by means of the word."  (Ephesians 5:26) Before his death, Jesus told his disciples: "You are already clean because of the word that I have spoken to you ."  (John 15:3)  Hence,  this glassy sea like crystal must represent the cleansing, recorded Word of God.  Those of the royal priesthood who come into Jehovah's presence must have been thoroughly cleansed by his Word.

Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne -Behold - "Four Living Creatures"!

From the Book of Revelation

The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Lightnings, Voices, and Thunders

Lightnings, Voices, and Thunders

What does John next see and hear?  "And out of the throne there are  proceeding lightnings and voices and thunders."  (Revelation 4:5a)  How reminiscent of other awesome manifestations of Jehovah's celestial power!   For example, when Jehovah "came down" on Mount Sinai, Moses reported:  "On the third day when it became morning it came about that thunders and lightnings began occurring, and a very heavy cloud upon the mountain and a very loud sound of a horn. . . . .When the sound of the horn became  continually louder and louder, Moses began to speak, and the true God began to answer him with a voice." -Exodus 19:16-19.

During the Lord's day, Jehovah makes his power and presence manifest in a sublime way.  No, not by literal lightning, for John is seeing signs. What, then, do the lightnings represent?  Well, flashes of lightning can illuminate, but they can also strike one dead.  Therefore, these lightnings issuing from Jehovah's throne will picture the flashing enlightenment that he has continually granted his people and, even more significantly, his fiery judgment messages. -Compare Psalm 18:14; 144:4,6;  Matthew 4:4-17; 24:27.

What of the voices? During Jehovah's descent onto Mount Sinai, a voice spoke to Moses.  (Exodus 19:19) Voices from heaven issued many of the commands and proclamations in the book of Revelation,  (Revelation4:1; 10:4, 8; 11:12; 12:10; 14:13; 16:1, 17; 18:4; 19:5; 21:3)  Today, Jehovah has also issued commands and proclamations to his people, illuminating their understanding of Bible prophecies and principles. Enlightening information conventions, and such Bible truths, have, in turn, been proclaimed worldwide.  The apostle Paul said of faithful preachers of the good news: "Why, in fact, 'into all the earth their sound went out, and to the extremities of the inhabitant earth their utterances.' " -Romans 10:18.

Thunder usually follows lightning.  David referred to literal thunder as "the   voice   of Jehovah."  (Psalm 29:3, 4)  When Jehovah fought for David against his enemies, thunder was said to come from Him.  (2 Samuel 22:14; Psalm 18:13) Elihu told Job that Jehovah's voice sounded like thunder, as He does "great things that we cannot know."  (Job 37:4, 5) During this part of the Lord's day Jehovah has "thundered," warning of the great acts he will perform against his enemies.  These symbolic peals of thunder have echoed and reechoed throughout the earth. Happy you are if you have paid attention to these thunderous proclamations and are making wise use of your tongue in adding to their volume! -Isaiah 50:4, 5; 61:1, 2.


Next time: The Magnificence of Jehovah's Celestial Throne - Lamps of Fire and a Glassy Sea

From the Book of Revelation